Hyundai Motor Banks on Hawaiian-Named SUV to Boost Waning Sales
- Kona is first global compact SUV model in Hyundai’s lineup
- Hyundai seeing U.S., China decline as consumers favor SUVs
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Hyundai Motor Co. is counting on its first global compact SUV model to revive flagging sales after missing out on the popularity of sport utility vehicles in its major markets.
Vice Chairman Chung Eui-sun unveiled the Kona SUV on Tuesday, with a starting price of 18.95 million won ($16,800). The model will begin sales this month in South Korea, followed by North America and Europe, and is expected to compete with the Honda HR-V, Toyota C-HR and Nissan Juke. The automaker plans to introduce several SUV models in various categories and powertrains, it said in a release.